Automated banking system controlled responsive to data bearing records

ABSTRACT

An automated banking machine operative to cause financial transfers responsive to data read from data bearing records. The automated banking machine includes a card reader that is operative to read card data from user cards corresponding to financial accounts. The automated banking machine is operative responsive to the card data to carry out transactions that transfer and/or allocate funds between accounts. The automated banking machine is further operative to provide users with a receipt for transactions conducted. The automated banking machine includes a cash dispenser operative to dispense cash to machine users and to cause the value of cash to be assessed to financial accounts corresponding to card data. The automated banking machine is further operative to receive currency bills or other sheets from a user and to process and store such sheets through operation of a currency accepting device. The account corresponding to card data may be credited for the value of bills or other sheets received.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/451,971 filed on Aug. 5, 2014 that is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/594,149 filed on Aug. 24, 2012, now U.S. Pat.No. 8,794,512, that is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/459,185 filed on Jun. 26, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,251,281, thatclaims benefit pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/192,282 filed Sep. 17, 2008, Ser. No. 61/133,477 filed Jun.30, 2008 and Ser. No. 61/133,346 filed Jun. 27, 2008, the disclosures ofthe aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to banking systems controlled by data bearingrecords that may be classified in U.S. Class 235, Subclass 379.

BACKGROUND ART

Automated banking machines may include a card reader that operates toread data from a bearer record such as a user card. Automated bankingmachines may operate to cause the data read from the card to be comparedwith other computer stored data related to the bearer or their financialaccounts. The machine operates in response to the comparison determiningthat the bearer record corresponds to an authorized user, to carry outat least one transaction which may be operative to transfer value to orfrom at least one account. A record of the transaction is also oftenprinted through operation of the automated banking machine and providedto the user. Automated banking machines may be used to carry outtransactions such as dispensing cash, the making of deposits, thetransfer of funds between accounts and account balance inquiries. Thetypes of banking transactions that may be carried out are determined bythe capabilities of the particular banking machine and system, as wellas the programming of the institution operating the machine.

Other types of automated banking machines may be operated by merchantsto carry out commercial transactions. These transactions may include,for example, the acceptance of deposit bags, the receipt of checks orother financial instruments, the dispensing of rolled coin, or othertransactions required by merchants. Still other types of automatedbanking machines may be used by service providers in a transactionenvironment such as a bank to carry out financial transactions. Suchtransactions may include for example, the counting and storage ofcurrency notes or other financial instrument sheets, the dispensing ofnotes or other sheets, the imaging of checks or other financialinstruments, and other types of transactions. For purposes of thisdisclosure an automated banking machine or an automated teller machine(ATM) shall be deemed to include any machine that may be used toautomatically carry out transactions involving transfers of value.

Automated banking machines may benefit from improvements.

OBJECTS OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

It is an object of an exemplary embodiment to provide an improvedautomated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide anautomated banking machine that accepts and stores sheets such asfinancial instruments.

It is a further object of exemplary embodiments to provide an automatedbanking machine that accepts currency bills.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide anautomated banking machine that accepts checks.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide anautomated banking machine that stores received sheets in uniformlystacked relation.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide anautomated banking machine that operates to store received sheets inuniformly stacked relation in removable cassettes.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide methods ofoperation of an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide a methodfor servicing an automated banking machine.

Further objects of exemplary embodiments will be made apparent in thefollowing Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments and the appendedclaims. The foregoing objects are accomplished in one exemplaryembodiment by an automated banking machine system that operatesresponsive to data bearing records. The exemplary machine is operativeto read data included on user cards as well as manually input data. Themachine operates to cause a determination to be made whether the inputdata corresponds to a user and/or an account that is authorized toconduct transactions at the machine. Authorized users are enabled toconduct transactions such as receiving cash which results in funds beingdebited to a financial account corresponding to the data included on theuser card.

Other transactions carried out in an exemplary embodiment include thedeposit of financial instrument sheets such as currency bills and/orchecks. The exemplary machine operates to receive a stack of such sheetsfrom a user who has been determined to be authorized to operate themachine. The sheets are unstacked and after being aligned, aretransported past a plurality of sensors. The sensors in exemplaryembodiments may operate to image the sheets. Such sensors may also sensemagnetic, ultraviolet and/or infrared properties or other detectableproperties associated with the sheets. The data gathered through readingthe sheets is used to determine data on the sheets and/or whether suchsheets are valid financial instruments such as bills or checks.

Sheets may be stored on a temporary basis. Sheets that are determined tobe invalid may be transported to a compartment so that they aresegregated from other sheets. Sheets that are requested to be returnedto the user may be transported back into the area of the original stackso that they may be taken by a user from the machine. In exemplaryembodiments sheets that are determined to be valid are transported intoa secure chest. Depending on the nature of the sheet, sheets are routedselectively to compartments in sheet holding containers.

In exemplary embodiments the sheets in the container are maintained inan aligned stack. Sheets entering the container are engaged and held byat least one rotating gripper member that grips the sheet, moves thesheet through rotation of the member and releases the sheet in alignmentwith the stack. In an exemplary embodiment a plurality of belts androllers are used to urge movement of the sheet into the sheet holdingcompartment. Within each container the stack is supported on a moveableplate. The machine operates to move the plate so that the proper spacedrelationship is maintained between the rotating gripping member and thestack as sheets are added.

In exemplary embodiments the removable containers include internalelements which are contactlessly sensed by the machine through sensorspositioned outside the containers. In exemplary embodiments the elementsinclude magnetic elements, but in other embodiments other types ofelements may be used. This feature of an exemplary embodiment providesfor accurate control of the rotating member, rollers and belts andpositioning of the stack support plate without the need for electricalcontacts or connectors between the removable container and the rest ofthe machine. Of course this approach is exemplary.

In the exemplary embodiment during transactions the containers arepositioned within a secure chest of the machine. The chest may be openedand the containers removed. The exemplary containers include lockabledoors which enable authorized persons to gain access to the sheetswithin the containers once they have been removed from the machine. Thusfor example, containers that have become close to filled may be removedby authorized persons and replaced with empty containers. In otherembodiments devices for both receiving and dispensing financialinstrument sheets may be provided. This may include recycling mechanismsthat operate to receive, store and dispense currency bills or othervaluable items. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an automated banking machine that operatesresponsive to data included on user cards.

FIG. 2 is a front view of an exemplary fascia of an automated bankingmachine.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an exemplary sheet accepting and storagesystem within the exemplary machine.

FIG. 4 is a back view of an exemplary machine.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a support and sheet transport module thatoperates to transport sheets between a sheet accepting module andstorage modules within a secure chest.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a housing structure including a slide-outtray used for holding storage containers within the secure chest.

FIG. 7 is an opposite hand isometric view showing the tray forsupporting sheet holding containers.

FIG. 8 is a back isometric view showing the tray in the extendedposition.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional bottom view of the tray including springstructures that facilitate removal of the containers.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a sheet directing transport which isoperative to direct sheets selectively to sheet holding containers.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of an exemplary sheet holding container.

FIG. 12 is an opposite hand isometric view of the sheet holdingcontainer shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a bottom isometric view of the sheet holding container.

FIG. 14 is a further isometric view of the sheet holding containerincluding an exploded view of the sheet stacking components.

FIG. 15 is a back isometric view of the stack support plate within thesheet holding container.

FIG. 16 is an opposite hand back isometric view of the stack supportplate within the exemplary sheet holding container.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view of a nut portion engaged with a drive screwoperative to move the stack support plate.

FIG. 18 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 17 but showing the nutportion disengaged from the drive screw.

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of the drive gears of the machine anddisengageable couplings of an exemplary storage container.

FIG. 20 is a cutaway view of an exemplary sensor for contactlesslysensing the position of the stack plate.

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of an exemplary latch for holding a sheetholding container in an operative position.

FIG. 22 is an isometric view showing the sheet holding container rotated90 degrees from the operative position.

FIG. 23 is a schematic view of an intermodule sheet transport.

FIG. 24 is an isometric view of the intermodule sheet transport shown inFIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is an expanded view of the intermodule sheet transport.

FIG. 26 is an enlarged view of the intermodule sheet transport and drivegear.

FIG. 27 is a schematic view showing the orientation of sheets passingout of the intermodule transport.

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of a right-hand bill stacking assemblyincluded in an exemplary sheet storage container.

FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the sheet stacking assembly shown in FIG.28.

FIG. 30 is a side view of an exemplary rotating member that is operativeto sense stack position and facilitate stacking sheets within the sheetholding container.

FIG. 31 is a view similar to FIG. 30 but showing the projecting portionof the rotating member moved to a position for properly applyingpressure to a stack.

FIG. 32 is a schematic view of exemplary signals generated by a Halleffect sensor based on the positions of the projecting portion in FIGS.30 and 31.

FIG. 33 is an exploded view of the components of the exemplary rotatingmember shown in FIGS. 30 and 31.

FIG. 34 is an isometric view of the exemplary rotating member with thecomponents in FIG. 33 in an assembled condition and showing the camfollowers extending from the rotating member.

FIG. 35 is an isometric exploded view of components of a rotating memberthat is operative to selectively hold, move and release sheets inengagement therewith.

FIG. 36 is a plan view of an exemplary indicating member operative toindicate the rotational position of the rotating members of the assemblyshown in FIG. 28.

FIG. 37 is an isometric view of the rotating member shown in FIG. 36.

FIGS. 38, 39 and 40 are opposite hand views of different stationary camsused in connection with the assembly shown in FIG. 38.

FIGS. 41 through 44 are schematic views of a sensing system forcontactlessly sensing the rotational position of a rotating assemblywithin an exemplary sheet holding cassette.

FIG. 45 is an isometric view of an opposite hand stacker wheel assemblyfrom that shown in FIG. 28.

FIG. 46 is an isometric exploded view of the stacker wheel assemblyshown in FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is an isometric view of the stacker wheel assembly and belt androller system for moving and stacking sheets in a sheet storagecontainer.

FIGS. 48 through 51 are side schematic views representative of theoperation of a rotating gripping member operating to engage and releasethe sheet and place it in aligned relation with a stack within the sheetholding container.

FIGS. 52 through 55 are plan views showing the configuration of theouter circumference of exemplary rotating members that facilitate sheetmovement through engagement of raised circumferential portions withdeformable rollers of the roller and belt assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, there is showntherein an exemplary embodiment of an automated banking machinegenerally indicated 10. The exemplary machine includes a housing 12. Theexemplary housing 12 includes an upper housing portion 14 and a securechest portion 16. In this exemplary embodiment the automated bankingmachine is a through-the-wall type machine. However, in otherembodiments other types of machines including standalone machines ormachines integrated within other devices may be used. Exemplary housingstructures for automated banking machines which may be used in someembodiments are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,156,296; 7,156,297; 7,165,767;and 7,000,830 the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference intheir entirety.

The exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine includes auser interface generally indicated 18 (see also FIG. 2). The userinterface components are surrounded by a fascia 20. In the exemplaryembodiment the user interface components include input devices andoutput devices. The input devices include a card reader 22. The cardreader 22 of the exemplary embodiment is operative to read data fromuser cards that are input to the machine through an opening on thefascia. Other user input devices of the exemplary embodiment include akeypad 24. Keypad 24 is operative to receive manual inputs by depressingalphanumeric keys.

Other input devices of the exemplary embodiment include function keys26. Function keys 26 are manually actuated keys through which inputs canbe provided in response to indicia output through a display 28 whichserves as an output device. It should be understood that these inputdevices are exemplary and in other embodiments other types of inputdevices may be used. These include for example biometric reading deviceswhich are operative to read biometric features of users. Such biometricfeatures may include fingerprint scans, iris scans, retina scans orother distinguishing features. In some embodiments a camera such ascamera 30 shown in FIG. 2 may serve as a biometric input device. Otherinput devices which may be used in exemplary embodiments includecontactless readers such as radio frequency identification (RFID)readers which may operate to read bearer records or other identifyingdata from RFID tags. In other embodiments input devices may includevoice recognition devices which are operative to identify a user byvoice. Of course these features are exemplary and in other embodimentsother features may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment the automated banking machine also includesa plurality of output devices. Such output devices may include a display28 as previously discussed. It should be understood that in someembodiments the display may include a touchscreen display at whichinputs may be provided by a user touching areas of the display.

Other output devices in the exemplary embodiment include speakers 32.Speakers 32 may be operative to provide audible instructions to machineusers. Another output device provided in an exemplary embodimentincludes a headphone jack 34. The headphone jack 34 may be used in theexemplary embodiment by persons who are blind and who may operate themachine responsive to instructions which are audibly output through aheadphone or similar device that is operatively connected to theheadphone jack.

Another output device included in an exemplary embodiment is a receiptprinter 36. The receipt printer 36 of the exemplary embodiment isoperative to print receipts for users of the machine. The receiptsinclude details of banking transactions that are conducted throughoperation of the machine. The receipt printer 36 delivers receiptsthrough a slot included on the fascia.

It should be understood that the output devices of the exemplaryembodiment are but examples of output devices that may be used inconnection with automated banking machines. In other embodiments otherdevices may be used. The exemplary embodiment of the automated bankingmachine includes a cash dispenser 38. The cash dispenser of theexemplary embodiment operates to cause cash which is stored within thesecure chest to be delivered to a machine user outside the machinethrough a presenter opening 40. The exemplary cash dispenser isoperative to pick currency bills from supplies of bills stored incontainers in the chest and accumulate such bills into a stack. Currencybills are alternatively referred to herein as notes. The stack isthereafter delivered to the machine user. Exemplary cash dispensers areoperative to deliver various types of currency bills as well as otherfinancial instrument sheets. Various cash dispensers may also operate todeliver other types of sheet material as well. Examples of cashdispensers which may be used in exemplary embodiments are shown in U.S.Pat. Nos. 7,344,132; 7,322,481; 7,121,461; 7,131,576; 7,140,537;7,144,006; 7,140,607; 7,004,383; 7,000,832; 6,874,682; and 6,634,636 thedisclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

Although not specifically discussed in connection with this exemplaryembodiment, embodiments of automated banking machines may also includedepository devices. Such depository devices are operative to receivevarious deposited items from users. Examples of depository devices areshown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,156,295; 7,137,551; 7,150,394; and 7,021,529the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

The exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine furtherincludes a currency accepting device generally indicated 42. Thecurrency accepting device includes a currency evaluation module 44. Thecurrency evaluation module of the exemplary embodiment operates in amanner hereinafter described. The currency evaluation module isoperative to receive a stack of sheets such as currency bills and toevaluate such bills for properties of genuineness or other features. Thecurrency evaluation module of the exemplary embodiment is positioned inthe upper housing 14 (see FIG. 4). The currency evaluation moduleoperates to accept and deliver sheets to users through a fascia opening46.

The exemplary embodiment of the currency accepting device 42 furtherincludes a storage assembly 48. The storage assembly 48 of the exemplaryembodiment is generally positioned in the secure chest 16.

In the exemplary embodiment which is shown from the back in FIG. 4, thesecure chest is an L-shaped chest. The chest may include featuresdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,830, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The L-shaped chestincludes a safe door 50. The safe door 50 may be held in a lockedposition through an associated lock 52. The lock 52 may be operative tocontrol the locked and unlocked condition of a boltwork that isoperative to securely hold the safe door in a closed position or toenable the safe door to be opened. As shown in FIG. 4 in the exemplaryembodiment the currency evaluation module 44 is positioned outside thechest portion. The currency evaluation module may be accessed through anappropriate access door or similar structure 54. Access door 54 may beheld in the closed position through operation of a lock 56. Further inthe exemplary embodiment items that are positioned in the upper housing14 may be secured against access by unauthorized persons through a lock60. Of course it should be understood that these structures areexemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used. In anexemplary embodiment the automated banking machine includes at least oneterminal controller 62 which may be alternatively referred to herein asa computer or a processor. The terminal controller 62 is in operativeconnection with at least one data store 64. Data store 64 in theexemplary embodiment is comprised of computer readable media which isoperative to store computer executable instructions and data which areused by the controller to operate the machine. In exemplary embodimentsthe computer readable media may include hard drives, flash memory, DVDs,CDs, magnetic media, optical media, solid state memory or other articlessuitable for holding computer executable instructions. It should beunderstood that although in the exemplary embodiment a single controllerand data store is schematically shown other embodiments may includenumerous processors and data stores. For example some embodiments mayinclude features described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,264,101 and/or 6,131,809the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety. The at least one terminal processor and at least oneassociated data store may also be referred to herein as controlcircuitry.

In the exemplary embodiment the terminal controller is operative tocommunicate with transaction function devices in the machine which areschematically referred to as 66. Transaction function devices 66 of theexemplary embodiment include devices of the automated banking machinethat operate responsive to at least one terminal controller. In theexemplary embodiment the transaction function devices include a cardreader, keypad, function keys, receipt printer, cash dispenser, currencyaccepting device and other devices that are operated in or in connectionwith the automated banking machine. It should be understood that thesedevices are merely exemplary and in other embodiments additional,different or lesser numbers of transaction function devices may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment the transaction function devices communicatethrough an interface bus schematically indicated 68. In the exemplaryembodiment the interface bus 68 may include a universal serial bus(USB). The messages which control operation of the various transactionfunction devices as well as the messages therefrom as well as messagesfrom the terminal controller pass through the interface bus. Of courseit should be understood that different types of interface buses andcommunications and methodologies may be used in embodiments of automatedbanking machines.

The exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine furtherincludes a communications device schematically indicated 70. Thecommunications device is suitable for providing communications betweenthe machine and remote computers through one or more networksschematically indicated 72. Communication device 70 may include asuitable network communication card, modem, wireless communicationdevice or other suitable device for communicating messages to and fromthe machine. Further exemplary embodiments may use proprietary networks,public networks or even the Internet for purposes of communication.

In the exemplary embodiment the automated banking machine 10communicates with at least one remote computer that operates to carryout financial transfers of funds to, from and/or between accounts. Thesemay be for example, computers located in a banking institutionschematically indicated 74. Remote computer 74 may also include forexample, remote computers operative to carry out credit transactions orother transactions including transfers of funds.

In some exemplary embodiments the automated banking machine may utilizeprinciples for communication with remote computers and other featuresshown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,159,144; 7,162,449; 7,093,749; 7,039,600;7,261,626; and/or 7,333,954 the disclosures of each of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Of course in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

In still other exemplary embodiments the automated banking machine mayoperate so as to enable users to receive marketing or other messages.This may be done in a manner like that shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,379,893the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Inaddition exemplary embodiments may communicate with systems that enablenotification of remote servicers or other entities that help to maintainthe automated banking machine in an operative condition. Communicationswith such entities may be accomplished in the manner shown in U.S. Pat.No. 7,366,646 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may also haveoperating in the terminal controller, diagnostic software applicationsthat are suitable for facilitating diagnosis and cure of conditions thatmay occur at the automated banking machine. This may be done for examplein the manner described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,104,441; 7,163,144;7,093,749; and/or 6,953,150 the entire disclosures of each of which areincorporated herein by reference.

In addition the automated banking machine may operate to capture imagesof users of the machine so as to provide records of functions carriedout and/or to identify particular users that may conduct transactions atthe machine. This may be done through operation of the terminalcontroller and/or by communication through the terminal controller orother processor with remote networks. Some embodiments may operate in amanner that employs the principles described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,147,147the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

Of course it should be understood that the features described areexemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In conducting transactions through operation of the exemplary embodimentof the automated banking machine the currency accepting device mayoperate to receive one or a stack of currency bills through the fasciaopening 46. It should be understood that the fascia opening iscontrolled by a suitable door or gate 76. The gate is operative toprevent access through the opening 46 except at appropriate times whentransactions are being conducted by authorized users. Currency billsinput through the opening are engaged by a stack handling mechanism 78.The exemplary stack handling mechanism is operative to receive a stackof bills from the user as well as to present bills to a user. In theexemplary embodiment the stack handling mechanism may be of the typeshown in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/983,410 filed Nov. 8, 2007the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.Alternatively the stack handling mechanisms may be of the type shown inU.S. Pat. Nos. 6,983,880 and/or 6,109,522 the entire disclosures of eachof which are incorporated herein by reference. Of course theseapproaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches maybe used.

Stacks of currency sheets input to the exemplary embodiment areseparated one by one from the stack through operation of a pickermechanism schematically indicated 80. The exemplary picker mechanismoperates using the principles of the incorporated disclosures such thatthe currency bills are moved and separated one at a time from the stack.Further in exemplary embodiments double bills that may be picked areseparated from one another and/or returned to the stack so that effortscan be made to separate each bill individually.

Bills that have been separated from the stack are moved into a documentalignment mechanism schematically indicated 82. The document alignmentmechanism 82 is operative to orient the currency bills in registrationwith the sheet path so as to facilitate the analysis thereof. Documentalignment mechanism 82 may include features like those shown in U.S.Pat. Nos. 7,213,746 and/or 6,109,522 the entire disclosures of each ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

Once documents have been aligned by the document alignment device 82,documents are passed through a sensing module 84. Sensing module 84 ofan exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of different types ofsensors. These may include for example, sensors that are operative toimage a document or portions thereof. They may also include sensors thatdetect reflectance from and transmission of radiation through variousareas on the document. Such sensors may further include magneticsensors, fluorescence sensors, RFID sensors, ultrasonic sensors or othersensors suitable for detecting characteristics that may be used todetermine the genuineness or other properties of currency bills or othersheets that are passed through the sensing module. Exemplary sensingmodules may include for example features and principles such as thosedescribed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,366,250 and/or 6,774,986 the disclosuresof each of which are incorporated herein by reference. Of course itshould be understood that these approaches are exemplary and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

Currency bills that have been moved through the sensing module 84 arepassed along a transport and selectively directed by one or more gatesschematically indicated 86 to desired locations or devices within themachine. For example in some exemplary modes of operation, currencybills that have passed through the sensing module 84 may be directed forstorage on a storage device schematically indicated 88. In the exemplaryembodiment the storage device may comprise a belt type recycler. Thebelt type recycler may be operative to store each currency bill in thesequence received, and then to subsequently deliver those currency billsin a last in/first out sequence. Exemplary storage devices may includefeatures like those shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,227,446 the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference. Of course the belt typerecycler described is exemplary and other devices and other types ofstorage and recovery systems may be used.

In other modes of operation gates 86 may be operative to direct currencybills along a transport that causes such bills to be returned to thestack handling mechanism 78. This may be done for example incircumstances where it is determined that the particular sheet is ablank sheet or other sheet that is not of a type that can be accepted bythe machine. As a result the sheet may be immediately rejected andreturned to the stack handling mechanism 78 which may operate inresponse to the terminal controller to return the sheet to a user. Ofcourse this approach is exemplary. In still other embodiments theterminal controller may operate to cause a gate 90 to direct selectedsheets to a document segregation compartment 92. Document segregationcompartment 92 may be used in some embodiments for storage of sheetsthat are determined to be counterfeit through operation of the sensingmodule. Alternatively or in addition in some embodiments the documentsegregation compartment may be used for storing sheets that are suspectas potentially counterfeit, or other types of sheets that are notacceptable to the machine. Of course this approach is exemplary and inother embodiments other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment one or more gates 86 may also operate todirect sheets from the currency evaluation module to an intermoduletransport 94. The intermodule transport 94 in the exemplary embodimentis operative to accept sheets from the currency evaluation module anddeliver them into the storage assembly 48. As can be appreciated, in theexemplary embodiment the intermodule transport 94 is operative to enablesheets to be moved from the currency evaluation module 42 which in theexemplary embodiment is outside the chest, into the interior area of thesecure chest. Documents that move through the intermodule transport areengaged with a sheet directing assembly 96. Exemplary sheet directingassembly 96 is operative to selectively direct sheets responsive tocommunication with the at least one terminal controller to cause sheetsto be directed and stored in selected storage locations. In theexemplary embodiment these selected locations include a sheet holdingcompartment in a first removable sheet stacking container 98 or within asheet holding compartment in a second removable sheet stacking container100. Alternatively in the exemplary embodiment the sheet directingassembly may direct sheets to a middle storage location schematicallyindicated 102. Of course these structures and configurations areexemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In exemplary embodiments operation of the currency accepting deviceincludes receiving a stack of currency bills from a user into themachine. After each sheet has been aligned by the document alignmentmechanism and moved past the sensing devices in the sensing module, thesheets are directed to the storage device where they are stored pendinganalysis of the sheets and/or other transaction steps or determinationsmade through operation of the terminal controller and/or other connectedsystems. This includes for example evaluating each sheet forgenuineness, determining the denomination of each currency bill,evaluating features of the sheet that may indicate that it iscounterfeit or suspect, or other steps. Such determinations may alsoinclude receiving inputs from a user confirming the value of sheetsincluded in the transaction, indicating whether the user wishes todeposit the sheets, and other inputs.

In an exemplary mode of operation, sheets stored in the storage devicethat are to be deposited may be directed through operation of the one ormore gates 86 into the storage assembly 48 where they are selectivelyrouted to an appropriate storage container for the particular type ofsheet, or to the middle storage compartment. Further in the exemplarymode of operation, counterfeit or suspect counterfeit sheets aredirected from the storage device 88 to the document segregationcompartment 92. Other sheets that are not routed to other areas may bereturned to the user. This may be done for example by returning thesheets to the stack handling mechanism 78 and presenting those sheets tothe user through the opening 46.

In addition exemplary embodiments may operate in accordance withfeatures of the incorporated disclosures to allow a user to request areturn of all of the currency bills or other sheets that they haveplaced in the machine. This may be done for example in response to userinputs if the user decides that the type and character of the sheetsthey have deposited do not correspond with the automated banking machinedetermination concerning the nature of the sheets. Alternatively and/orin addition the terminal controller may provide a user with outputs thatcorrespond to options including for example the ability to resubmit forfurther evaluation by the machine, those sheets which the machine wasnot able to validate as genuine sheets during an initial analysis. Ofcourse numerous approaches may be taken based on the programming of theparticular terminal controller.

It should further be understood that although the exemplary embodimentsof the currency accepting device 42 is described with reference tohandling currency bills, other embodiments may operate using thedescribed features for handling other types of financial instruments orother sheets. These may include for example the handling and analysis ofchecks such as have been described in the incorporated disclosures. Forexample some exemplary embodiments may receive, evaluate and storefinancial checks. Other exemplary embodiments may operate to receive andstore both checks and currency bills. Other exemplary embodiments mayoperate to receive, analyze and store other types of sheets such asmoney orders, travelers checks, gaming materials, vouchers, script, giftcertificates, gift cards, or other sheets associated with transactions.Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments otherapproaches may be used.

It should further be understood that exemplary embodiments may alsoincorporate sheet recycling principles of the types described in theincorporated disclosures. This may include for example receivingfinancial instrument sheets such as currency bills from a particularuser and storing valid bills within the machine. Thereafter other userswho may be requesting to receive cash from the automated banking machineare dispensed the currency bills that the machine has previouslyreceived from other users and determined to be valid. Of course theseapproaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches maybe used.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show the exemplary intermodule transport 94 which is insupporting connection with a box frame 104. In the operative positionbox frame 104 in the exemplary embodiment is positioned within thesecure chest. The upper portion of the box frame includes an opening 106through which the intermodule transport extends. As best shown in FIG. 6box frame 104 includes slides 108, 110. The slides are in movablesupporting connection with a tray 112. Tray 112 in the exemplaryembodiment operatively supports removable stacking containers 98 and 100as well as the sheet directing assembly 96. As shown in FIG. 6 a latch114 is in operative connection with the tray 112. When the tray is inits retracted position within the secure chest, actuation of the latch114 is operative to release the tray such that the tray can be extendedoutward when the chest door is open in supporting connection with theslides. This is represented schematically in FIG. 8. Further as can beappreciated in the exemplary embodiment with the tray 112 extended to aposition outside the chest, the removable containers 98 and 100 can beremoved from engagement with the tray 112. In addition with thecontainers removed, a door 116 can be opened such that a personservicing the machine can gain access to those sheets which have beenmoved into the middle compartment 102.

As can be seen from FIGS. 3 and 7 exemplary tray 112 includes a lowfront wall 118 and a relatively higher back wall 120. As best shown inFIG. 9 in the exemplary embodiment front wall 118 is angled generallyoutward. This construction in the exemplary embodiment facilitatesmoving the containers 98, 100 angularly away at the top from the backwall 120 to facilitate the removal thereof. Further as shown in FIG. 9the lower surface of tray 112 of the exemplary embodiment includesintegral leaf springs 122. The integral leaf springs 122 are configuredso as to facilitate biasing the containers so as to move away from theback wall at the top. Of course this approach is exemplary and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

As can be seen in FIG. 7 the tray 112 further includes side walls 124.The side walls of the exemplary embodiment along with the front wall118, back wall 120 and sheet directing assembly 96 are operative tobound an area 126 for releasibly holding container 98. Likewise on anopposed side of the sheet directing assembly the front wall 118, backwall 120 and side wall 124 bound an area 128. Area 128 is configured forreleasibly accepting container 100 when door 116 is in the closedposition. Of course this configuration is exemplary and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used. The exemplary sheet directingassembly 96 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 10. Sheets that havepassed through the intermodule transport 94 enter the sheet directingassembly 96 through an opening in the top thereof and pass between rolls130, 132. The entry of sheets between the rolls through the top openingis represented by arrow I. Sheet directing gates 134, 136 are inoperative connection with suitable actuators so as to selectivelyposition the gates responsive to signals from the terminal controller.In the condition shown in FIG. 10, gates 134 and 136 are positioned suchthat sheets entering the sheet directing assembly are caused to move tothe right as shown and into sheet holding container 100. Thus in thiscondition sheets that enter the assembly 96 are so directed until theconditions of gates 134 and 136 are changed.

In response to appropriate signals the positions of the gates may bereversed such that sheets entering assembly 96 may be directed to theleft as shown through an outlet opening in the sheet directing assemblyand into the container 98. In addition in the exemplary embodiment thegates may be controlled such that sheets entering the sheet directingassembly may pass in a straight through manner into the middle storagecompartment 102. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

As can be appreciated sheets that pass from the intermodule transport 94into the sheet directing assembly 96 move downward through a gap ingenerally unsupported relation. Further as can be appreciated becausethe intermodule transport and sheet directing assembly are relativelymovable, the intermodule transport and sheet directing assembly may notnecessarily always be precisely positioned. The movement of sheets intothe sheet directing assembly is facilitated through the use of inwarddirected guides 138. Guides 138 cooperate with the engaging action ofrollers 130, 132 to draw sheets into the pinch area between the rollers.This helps to assure that sheets may reliably pass even in conditionswith minor misalignment.

The exemplary intermodule transport 94 further facilitates the passageof sheets both from the currency evaluation module 44 outside the chestthrough an opening in chest wall and into the sheet directing assembly.The exemplary intermodule transport 94 is shown in greater detail inFIGS. 23 through 27. As represented schematically in FIG. 23 theintermodule transport includes a pair of rolls 140, 142. The rolls 140and 142 support thereon continuous belts which in the exemplaryembodiment comprise ultrahigh molecular weight urethane. In thisexemplary embodiment the belts 144 and 146 operate in direct contactwith one another to move sheets therebetween. Belts 144 and 146 areoperative to move sheets from an inlet nip 148 to an outlet 150. Furtherin the exemplary embodiment the intermodule transport 94 is operative toprovide a generally 90 degree turn for sheets passing therethrough. Thisconfiguration reduces the risk that criminals who may gain access to theupper housing portion of the machine can fish out currency notes thatare stored within the chest. This is because the opening between thebelts is offset from the opening on the top of the sheet directingassembly 96. Further the structure of the sheet holding containers ofthe exemplary embodiment generally prevent access by criminal tools fromthe opening in the safe in which the intermodule transport ispositioned, to the interior of the cassettes where substantialquantities of sheets are generally held. Further the exemplary structureof the intermodule transport facilitates passing sheets through arelatively thick safe wall at the top of the chest portion.

A further useful aspect of the exemplary embodiment is that the rolls140 and 142 provide a relatively wide area in which sheets may engagethe rolls and be drawn between the belts. In addition the exemplaryembodiment includes a slight gap in the area between the rolls tofurther facilitate drawing in the sheets. As can be seen, as the sheetsare moved into the transport from the inlet nip 148, the gap between thebelts in the undeformed condition closes so as to facilitate thepositive transport of the sheets. As can be appreciated the exemplaryembodiment of the currency evaluation module 44 is relatively movablewith regard to the supporting surface of the L-shaped chest. Inexemplary embodiments the module is made relatively movable by beingsupporting on slides or other suitable movable guides. Thus the modulethrough movement may become slightly misaligned relative to theintermodule transport. The exemplary configuration of the intermoduletransport compensates for such misalignment.

Further in the exemplary embodiment the intermodule transport includes adrive gear 152. The drive gear 152 is operative to engage a mating gearon the currency evaluation module 44. The mating gear on the currencyevaluation module operates to provide power in the form of rotationalmovement to the drive gear of the intermodule transport. Thus thecurrency evaluation module is able to control the transport of sheetsmechanically through the intermodule transport. Due to the potentialvariance in position of the currency evaluation module, the exemplarydrive gear 152 is mounted in supporting connection with a rotatablesupport 154. The rotatable support 154 is rotatable about a shaft 156 asbest shown in FIG. 26. Also supported in rotatable connection with shaft156 is a driven gear 158. Due to this mounting structure drive gear 152is rotatable about driven gear 158. The driven gear 158 is in operativeconnection with a pulley which drives a belt 160 which in turn drivesthe belts 144, 146 of the intermodule transport. A spring 162 isoperative to bias the rotatable support 154 in a counterclockwisedirection as shown in FIG. 23. In the exemplary embodiment when thecurrency evaluation module is moved inward into the housing of themachine, the gear thereon engages drive gear 152 and moves it clockwisewith the rotatable support against the force of the spring 162. As canbe appreciated the position in which the currency evaluation module isplaced in position for operation can be varied somewhat linearly as longas the drive gear 152 is engaged with the mating gear on the module.Thus a relatively large amount of variance in the operative position ofthe module may occur while still providing effective operation of theintermodule transport. Of course this approach is exemplary, and inother embodiments other approaches may be used.

The exemplary intermodule transport further includes outlet rolls 164,166. Outlet rolls 164 and 166 are operative to support belts 144 and 146and engage bills that pass from the outlet 150. In the exemplaryembodiment rolls 164 are supported on a relatively movable shaft whichis biased toward engagement with rolls 166. Further in the exemplaryembodiment outlet rolls 164 and 166 have foam rollers 168 positionedadjacent thereto on the roller support shafts. As best shown in FIG. 27the foam rollers are operative to impart a cross-sectional waveconfiguration to sheets such as sheet 170 which pass therethrough. Thiscross-sectional wave configuration provides rigidity to the sheets tofacilitate movement of the sheets from the outlet 150 and into theopening 172 at the top of sheet directing assembly 96. Of course thisapproach is exemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may beused.

FIGS. 11 through 14 show an exemplary embodiment of sheet stackingcontainer 98. It should be understood that in the exemplary embodimentsheet stacking container 100 is generally constructed in a mannersimilar to container 98 but is a mirror image thereof. Container 98includes a body 174. The exemplary body is comprised of plastic,aluminum or other material that enables sensing magnetic fieldstherethrough. Body 174 includes a front opening 176. In exemplaryembodiments opening 176 may be selectively closed by one or more doors178 schematically shown in FIG. 12. In addition in the exemplaryembodiment the door 178 includes a lock 180 so that only authorizedpersons are enabled to gain access to the sheet holding compartmentgenerally indicated 182 that is within the interior area of the body.

The exemplary container further includes an external handle 184. Handle184 is a rotating handle that can be lifted to facilitate removal of thecontainer 98 from engagement with tray 112. In addition as best shown inFIG. 12 container 98 includes an opening 186. Opening 186 enables sheetsfrom the sheet directing assembly 96 to pass inwardly into the sheetholding compartment of container 98.

The exemplary container 98 includes a sheet supporting plate 188. Plate188 is operative to support a stack of sheets in supporting connectiontherewith above the plate. The plate 188 includes openings therethrough190. Support rods 192 extend through the openings 190. As best shown inFIGS. 15 and 16 two pairs of spaced gear racks 194 extend within thecontainer. Each pair of gear racks engage a set of gears 196. Gear sets196 operatively extend between each pair of gear racks 194 at eachlateral side of the plate 188. At least one of the gears in each gearset on a lateral side of the plate 188 is connected through a shaft toanother gear included in the gear set on an opposed side of plate 188.As a result the connected gear sets constrain the plate 188 to move in auniform and level manner in a direction perpendicular to the gear racks.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 the exemplary plate 188 is in operativeconnection with an internal drive. The drive includes a rotatable screw198. The drive which includes the screw also includes at least one gearwhich is engageable through a wall in the cassette with a driving gearoutside the cassette as later discussed. As a result the drive withinthe cassette is able to move the plate selectively within the interiorof the container responsive to rotation of the screw 198.

In the exemplary embodiment the plate is in operative connection with amanually actuatable lever 200. In exemplary embodiments the manuallyactuatable lever 200 is positioned below the plate. The lever 200includes outward extending tabs 202 which can be displaced toward theplate 188.

Displacement of the lever 200 through movement of the tabs is operativeto change the engaged relation of a plate and the drive. This is done inthe exemplary embodiment as schematically represented in FIGS. 17 and18. In the exemplary embodiment a nut portion 204 is biased to engagescrew 198 of the drive. Nut portion 204 of the exemplary embodimentincludes a half nut with threads thereon that are configured to engagethe threads of the screw. As a result when the nut portion 204 and thescrew 198 are engaged the plate moves in response to rotation of thescrew. Likewise when the screw is stationary the plate is likewise heldin a fixed position. Moving the tabs 202 of the lever 200 toward theplate 188 causes the nut portion 204 to move so as to disengage thescrew 198. This is schematically represented in FIG. 18. As a result theplate 188 can be selectively positioned within the interior of thecontainer. Thus for example in situations where a servicer may wish toremove a stack of accumulated sheets from within the sheet holdingcompartment within the container, the support plate may be moved so asto facilitate the removal of sheets from the container. Likewise afterthe sheets have been removed the servicer may selectively position theplate so as to put it in a position where it is closer to the opening inthe container so as to be more readily positioned to accept more sheets.Of course these approaches are exemplary.

Further in the exemplary embodiment the nut portion 204 is movablysupported through guide slots 206 in a bracket 208. A spring 210operates to provide biasing force that causes the nut portion 204 to bein engagement with the screw 198 of the drive when the tabs 202 are notmoved toward the plate. Of course it should be understood that thisconstruction is exemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches maybe used.

As shown in FIG. 22 the container 98 of the exemplary embodimentincludes a rear wall 212. The rear wall includes an opening 214. Opening214 provides access to a gear 216. Gear 216 is a part of the drive formoving the plate 188. Gear 218 in the exemplary embodiment is inoperative connection with screw 198.

Opening 214 is aligned with a driving gear 218. Gear 218 extendsoutwardly from the back wall 120 of the tray 112. This can beappreciated from FIG. 22 in which container 98 is shown rotated 90degrees relative to the back wall, and the sheet directing assembly isnot shown for purposes of showing the mating engagement of components ofthe exemplary storage assembly. When the container 98 is in theoperative position gear 218 engages gear 216 of the drive positionedwithin the cassette. The motor or other movement device which isoperative to drive gear 218 can thereby relatively position plate 188within the cassette.

As is further shown in FIG. 22 rear wall 212 includes openings 220 and222. Openings 220 and 222 each provide access to a disengageable shaftcoupling 224 and 226 respectively. Shaft couplings 224 and 226 aretoothed couplings which are each in respective connection with rotatableshafts that extend in the container for purposes which are laterexplained. In the operative position of the container 98, coupling 224is operatively engaged with a rotatable drive gear 228 and coupling 226is engaged with a drive gear 230. Drive gears 228 and 230 areselectively rotatable through operation of one or more drives such asmotors that operate responsive to signals received from the terminalcontroller. The engagement of the drive gears and couplings is furtherrepresented in FIG. 19.

In the exemplary embodiment an aligning projection 232 extends outwardfrom back wall 120. The aligning projection is configured to engage inmating relation an alignment recess 234 in the rear wall 212 ofcontainer 98. In the exemplary embodiment the aligning projection andrecess engage prior to the gears and facilitate the mating engagementthereof as the rear wall of the container is brought into closeproximity with the back wall 120 of the tray. Of course this approach isexemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

The exemplary container 98 further includes a latching recess 236. Thelatching recess 236 is sized for engaging a latching finger 238. Thelatching finger 238 is biased to extend in a downward position and topositively engage and hold the container 98 in an operative positionsuch that gears 218 and 216 are engaged and drive gears 228 and 230 areengaged with couplings 224 and 226. In the exemplary embodiment thelatching finger 238 is operative to biasingly engage a latch member 240which is accessible through the latching recess 236. In the exemplaryembodiment once the latching finger 238 engages the latch member thecontainer 98 is held in the operative position.

In the exemplary embodiment a manually engageable release lever 242 isin operative connection with the latching finger 238. Relative downwardmovement of the release lever 242 in the configuration shown isoperative to cause the latching finger 238 to move upward so as todisengage from the latch member of the container. Further in theexemplary embodiment a leg portion 244 is also in operative connectionwith the release lever. Movement of the release lever to disengage thelatch member is further operative to cause the leg portion to moveoutward through an opening 246 in the back wall 120. In the exemplaryembodiment the leg portion 244 operates to push against rear wall 212 ofthe container. This along with the action of the leaf springs 122 on thetray is operative to cause the upper portion of the container to bemoved away from the back wall 120. As a result the handle 184 can bereadily lifted and the container moved upward to disengage from thetray.

Likewise when the container is to be engaged in position the containermay be placed in supporting connection with the tray and the upperportion of the container moved toward the back wall 120 until thelatching finger 238 engages the latch. Once the container has been movedto this position and the tray is moved inward into the operativeposition within the secure chest, the container is ready for operation.Of course as can be appreciated, in the exemplary embodiment the safedoor of the chest must be opened by authorized personnel before the tray112 can be extended therefrom so as to enable access to the containers98 and 100 so that the containers may be removed or installed. Of coursethese approaches are exemplary, and in other embodiments otherapproaches may be used.

As shown in FIG. 14 cassette 98 further includes a sheet stackingassembly generally indicated 248 in the interior thereof. In theexemplary embodiment the sheet stacking assembly 248 includes a supportframe 250. Frame 250 is operative to support a flip shaft assembly 252which is rotatable in bearings 254 which extend in openings from theframe. The releasable coupling 224 is in operative connection with theflip shaft assembly 252.

An idler shaft assembly 256 is supported on bearings 258 that extend inopenings in frame 250. Each of the flip shaft assembly and idler shaftassembly include corresponding rollers 260. Each of rollers 260 supporta corresponding continuous belt 262. Belts 262 in the exemplaryembodiment include outward extending cleats 264 thereon. In the positionshown a lower belt flight of each of belts 262 extend in facing relationwith plate 188.

The exemplary sheet stacking assembly further includes a stacker wheelassembly 266. Stacker wheel assembly 266 is rotatable in bearings 268which extend in corresponding openings in frame 250. The releasablecoupling 226 is in operative connection with stacker wheel assembly 266and is operative to cause rotation thereof.

The exemplary embodiment further includes within the container a guide270. Guide 270 includes fingers that are operative to direct sheetswhich move into the opening 186 in the container for purposes that arelater discussed. The interior of the container also includes a bracket272 which is operative to hold the support rods 192 previouslydiscussed. Of course it should be understood that these structures areexemplary and in other embodiments other structures and approaches maybe used.

FIG. 47 shows the exemplary embodiment of stacker wheel assembly 266,flip shaft assembly 252, idler shaft assembly 256 and belts 264. As canbe seen the stacker wheel assembly 266 includes a plurality of rotatingmembers. In the exemplary embodiment the rotating members include a pairof gripper members 274. The rotating members further include a sensingmember 276. The stacker wheel assembly further includes an indicatingmember 278. Each of the rotating members 274, 276 and 278 are inoperatively fixed connection with a common shaft 280 which extends alongan axis 281 and is selectively rotatable through coupling 226.

The exemplary flip shaft assembly 252 includes the pulleys 260 whichsupport belts 264 thereon. In addition in the exemplary embodiment theflip shaft assembly includes three deformable rollers 282. In theexemplary embodiment the deformable rollers are comprised of foammaterial. However, in other embodiments other materials as well as otherrelatively deformable structures may be used. The deformable rollers 282and pulleys 260 are in operatively fixed connection with a common shaft284 that is rotated through coupling 224. As can be seen, in theexemplary embodiment the belts 264 extend in intermediate relationbetween adjacent rotating members. The deformable rollers 282 arepositioned so as to be aligned with rotating members and in some angularpositions of the rotatable members are biased toward an engaged positionwith the adjacent rotatable members.

In the exemplary embodiment stationary members 286, 288, 290 and 292extend between the rotating members. Each of the stationary members havecams supported thereon. The cams which comprise surfaces of the membersoperate to control movable components of the respective adjacentrotating members in a manner that is later discussed in detail. Furtheras shown in FIG. 46 gripper members 274 include cam followers 294 whichextend laterally outward from each side thereof. The cam followersengage adjacent cams 296, 298 in the case of one gripper member 274, andcams 300 and 302 in the case of another gripper member. Likewise sensingmember 276 includes cam followers 304 that extend generally axiallyoutward therefrom and engage cams 306 and 308 that extend on opposedsides thereof. Of course it should be understood that these approachesare exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment indicating member 278 includes a pair ofindicating element portions 310. Indicating element portions in theexemplary embodiment comprise magnetic elements which are embedded indiametrically opposed positions on the periphery of the indicatingmember 278.

In the exemplary embodiment a contactless sensor such as a Hall effectsensor is positioned outside of the container on a face of the sheetdirecting assembly 96. In the operative position of the container theHall effect sensor is operative to sense the varying magnetic fieldcaused as the magnet passes in proximity to the Hall effect sensor.Further in the exemplary embodiment the poles of each magnetic elementare at opposed positions tangentially to an outer circumferentialsurface of the indicating member. This facilitates sensing the movementof the magnetic element as it passes the adjacent sensor. Thus in theexemplary embodiment the external sensor is enabled to detect in anelectrically contactless manner the stacker wheel assembly in twodiametrically opposed rotational positions. This avoids the need forreleasible electrical connections between the removable containers andthe rest of the machine. Of course this approach for detecting therotational position of the stacker wheel assembly is exemplary and inother embodiments other approaches may be used.

FIGS. 48 through 51 show the operation of the exemplary flip shaftassembly 252 and stacker wheel assembly 256 in moving and stackingsheets. In an exemplary operation a sheet such as a currency bill 312 isdirected by the sheet directing assembly 96 toward the container 98. Thesheet 312 passes through an opening generally indicated 314 in the sheetdirecting assembly. A sensor 316 operates to sense a leading edge of thesheet 312 passing through the opening 314. In the exemplary embodimentthe sensor 316 is a through beam sensor such as a photosensor that isblocked upon a leading edge of the receipt passing between an emitterand a receiver of the sensor. Of course this approach is exemplary.

The leading edge of the sheet 312 that has been detected by the sensor316 passes into the opening 186 of the container 98. As shown in FIG. 49the leading edge of the sheet 312 engages the guide 270 and a portion ofthe sheet moves into a slot 318 which extends adjacent the periphery ofgripper member 274. In the exemplary embodiment slot 318 is formed by acurved finger portion 320 which is bounded by a radially inward facingsurface 322.

In the exemplary embodiment the at least one processor, based on atleast one signal produced responsive to sensor 316, is operative tocause the stacker wheel assembly and gripper member 274 to beginrotating in a counterclockwise direction shown when the sheet 312 isengaged in the slot 318. The at least one processor is also operative tocause the flip shaft assembly 252 to rotate as the sheet enters thecontainer and the flip shaft assembly continues rotating in a clockwisedirection as shown as the gripper member rotates in a counterclockwisedirection.

As later described in greater detail, rotation of the gripper member isoperative to cause the cam followers 294 which extend on each side ofthe gripper member to be moved responsive to engagement of the adjacentcams. This causes a gripper portion 322 which is later described indetail to be moved radially outward and to engage the sheet 312 in theslot 318 in sandwiched relation between the radially inward extendingsurface 322 and the outer face of the gripper portion 322.

In the exemplary embodiment as the gripper member 274 rotates to theposition shown in FIG. 50 the belts 264 and deformable rollers 282engage the sheet 312 and pull it inward into the container. In theexemplary embodiment, the flip shaft assembly 252 continues rotating tomove the sheet into the container, while the gripper member 274 stopsrotating counterclockwise in the position shown in FIG. 50. This is doneresponsive to operation of the terminal controller. As can beappreciated the flip shaft assembly of the exemplary embodiment canoperate to move a relatively long sheet a greater lineal distance thanis caused by movement of the sheet by rotation in engagement with thegripper member. In the exemplary embodiment the terminal processorcauses the flip shaft assembly to continue operating to urge the sheetto move into the container a programmed time after the trailing edge ofthe sheet clears the sensor. This assures that the sheet is movedentirely into the container and its trailing edge is urged by the beltsto flip over into the stack. Of course this approach is exemplary.

In the exemplary embodiment, the terminal controller operates to causerotation of the gripper member to stop temporarily while a sheet 312 issensed as still moving into the container. In this position the opposedfinger portion that is not currently holding sheet 312 is disposed awayfrom the trailing edge of the sheet as it enters the opening in thecontainer. Further in the exemplary embodiment the finger is shroudedfrom engaging the trailing edge of the sheet by the adjacent membersthat include the cam surfaces. As a result if the trailing edge of thesheet has a “dog ear” portion as shown in FIG. 50, such portion will notget caught on the finger portion. This reduces the risk of jams. Oncethe trailing edge is sensed as having passed the sensor and subsequentsufficient movement of the flip shaft assembly has occurred to move thetrailing edge inward beyond the finger portion, the terminal controllercauses the stacker wheel assembly to rotate so that the finger portionand its associated slot is in position to engage the leading edge of thenext incoming sheet. This further rotation further causes the gripperportion to release sheet 312. As shown in FIG. 51 the trailing edge ofthe sheet 312 can be engaged by the cleats on belts 264 and flipped asshown to be included in a sheet stack 324 within the container. Furtherthe cam followers are moved by the corresponding cams so as to cause theleading edge of the sheet that has been engaged in slot 318 to bereleased by movement of the gripper portion as the gripping member 274rotates to the position in which the slot on the member opposite to theslot 318 is positioned to engage another incoming sheet. As can beappreciated the sensing of magnetic elements 310 enables the terminalcontroller to rotate the stacker wheel assembly 266 in coordinatedrelation so as to engage, move and release a sheet into the stack uponeach rotation.

Further in the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 51 the grippermember 274 releases each sheet so that the leading edge thereof thatentered the container is in generally aligned relation with the stack274. As a result sheets of various lengths may be stacked within thecontainer with their leading edges generally aligned.

Further in the exemplary embodiment each of the stationary members 292,290, 288 and 286 include generally aligned sheet engaging surfaces 326(see FIG. 46). These generally aligned sheet engaging surfaces 326operate to engage the leading edge of the sheet and separate the sheetfrom the rotating members. This further helps to facilitate releasingthe sheets in aligned relation with the stack. Of course this approachis exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

It should also be pointed out that in the exemplary embodiment each ofthe sensing member and the indicating member also include peripheralslots that are generally aligned with the slots on the gripper members.As a result sheets that are engaged with the gripper members are movedwhile extending in the corresponding slots of the other rotatingmembers. This further helps facilitate engaging, moving and releasingthe sheets into the stack in coordinated relation.

FIGS. 52 through 55 further show aspects of the exemplary embodimentwhich facilitates the movement of sheets into the container. FIG. 52shows an opposite hand view of a gripper member 274 and a deformableroller 282. FIG. 52 shows the gripper member in the initial position inwhich the gripper member has received a sheet 328 in a slot thereof andthe gripper portion 322 is moving responsive to rotation of the grippermember in engagement with the cams to engage the sheet. In this positionthe outer circumference of the finger portion is not engaged with thedeformable roller 382. However, as can be seen, the outer circumferenceof the gripper member 274 includes radially outward extendingcircumferential bump portions 330 that extend further radially outwardthan other portions of the outer circumference of the gripper member274. It should be noted that FIG. 53 shows gripper member 274 in asimilar position to that shown in FIG. 52 but without sheet 328 thereinso as to better show the exemplary configuration of the roller.

FIG. 54 shows the rotation of the gripper member further clockwise fromthat shown in FIG. 52. As can be seen, the front portion 330 is moved toadjacent the deformable roller 282. Because of the raisedcircumferential bump portion the foam roller is deformed and providesbiasing engagement between the roller, the sheet and the gripper member.This engages the sheet 328 in sandwiched relation between the deformableroller and the gripper member and urges its movement of the sheet intothe container. In the exemplary embodiment if the sheet were not presentbetween the deformable roller and the gripper member, the deformableroller would be in engagement with a bump portion of the gripper member.This is further represented in FIG. 55 which like FIG. 53 does notinclude the sheet to facilitate understanding of the structures. Ofcourse in the exemplary embodiment further rotation in a clockwisedirection as shown causes the circumferentially extending bump portionto again rotate away from the deformable roller as the gripper membermoves to a position in which another sheet may be accepted into a slotthereof. Of course it should be understood that these approaches areexemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

Other exemplary embodiments may use mechanisms of other types to stacksheets in aligned relation. Further such other embodiments may operateto dispense sheets that have been previously stored. This may be donefor example in the manner disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,302,393 and/or6,331,000 the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety. For example in some embodiments a singlesheet handling apparatus may be operative to perform both the functionsof receiving sheets from users as well as dispensing sheets. Further aspreviously discussed while some embodiments may operate to handle sheetssuch as currency bills, other embodiments may also operate to receiveand/or dispense other financial instruments and/or sheets including forexample checks, gaming materials, money orders, food stamps, gift cards,payment cards or other sheet items. Of course these approaches areexemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In an exemplary embodiment the containers 98 and 100 are made so thatthe sheet stacking assembly as well as the position of the stack may beprecisely controlled without the need for wired connections orelectrical contacts between the removable containers and the remainderof the automated banking machine. This facilitates the installation andremoval of the cassettes without the need for concern about breakage ofelectrical connectors or deterioration of electrical contacts. This isaccomplished in the exemplary embodiment through the sensing of magneticfields using sensors that are positioned adjacent to the container whenthe container is in an installed position. The container operates tovary the magnetic properties that can be sensed with varying conditionswithin the container so as to enable contactless sensing. This alsoenables the terminal controller of the automated banking machine toeffectively control the components within the container so that sheetsmay be reliably received and stacked within the containers. Of course itshould be understood that using magnetic principles is but one exampleof indicating and sensing approaches that may be used for such purposes.

FIGS. 28 and 29 show an alternative stacker wheel assembly 332. Stackerwheel assembly 332 is similar to stacker wheel assembly 266 except thatit is configured for use in an opposite hand container from assembly266. For example stacker wheel assembly 332 may be installed incontainer 100 for purposes of receiving and stacking sheets. Stackerwheel assembly 332 includes a shaft 334. The shaft 334 is assembled inoperatively fixed connection with gripper members 336 and 338. Grippermembers 336 and 338 are generally similar to gripper member 274.

Stacker wheel assembly 332 further includes an indicating member 340.Indicating member 340 is generally similar to indicating member 278.Indicating member 340 further includes indicating element portions 342thereon which are sensed in the exemplary embodiment by a Hall effectsensor to detect rotational position of the assembly. As a result aspreviously described, this enables the stacker wheel assembly to bepositioned responsive to operation of the terminal controller to receivea sheet and to move the sheet through operation of the stacker wheelassembly and flip shaft assembly to a position aligned in the stack.

Stacker wheel assembly 332 further includes a sensing member 344.Sensing member 344 is generally similar to sensing member 276 previouslydiscussed. Stacker wheel assembly 332 further includes stationarymembers 346, 348, 350 and 352. The exemplary stationary members whichare shown in greater detail in FIGS. 38 through 40 each include camsthereon. This includes for example cam 354 on member 346, cams 356 and358 on member 348, and cams 360 and 362 on member 350. Further as can beappreciate in the exemplary embodiment member 352 is configured as amirror image of member 346. As with the stationary members previouslydescribed, each stationary member has a bore therethrough in which shaft334 can freely rotate. This is represented for example by bore 364 andmember 346. In addition each of the stationary members include alignedsheet stop surfaces which are operative to engage sheets in alignedrelation with the stack. The sheet stop surfaces facilitate separationof sheets from the rotating members. The sheet stop surfaces arerepresented for example by surface 366 on member 346.

As previously discussed the gripper members and sensing member each havecam followers extending from opposed lateral axial sides thereof. Thecam followers are operative to engage the adjacent cam surfaces andcause movement of components of the rotating members in coordinatedrelation with the rotation thereof. Of course this approach isexemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

FIG. 35 shows an exploded view of the exemplary embodiment of grippermember 336. Similar to gripper member 274, gripper member 336 is arotating member that rotates in operatively fixed connection with shaft334 of its associated stacker wheel assembly. Gripper member 336includes a pair of finger portions 368, 370. Each of finger portions 368and 370 each have respective radially inward facing surfaces 372 and 378that each define slots 380 and 382.

A gripper portion 384 is movably mounted on gripper member 336. Gripperportion 384 includes sheet engaging portions 386 and 388 at opposed endsthereof. In exemplary embodiments the sheet engaging portions mayinclude a deformable material such as an elastomer portion for purposesof engaging sheets in sandwiched relation between the sheet engagingportion and the adjacent radially inward opposing surface. Of coursethis approach is exemplary, and in other embodiments other approachesmay be used.

Gripper portion 384 includes cam followers 390 which in the exemplaryembodiment extend laterally axially from both sides thereof. Camfollowers 390 extend in and are constrained to move in elongated slots392. Elongated slots extend in a cover 394 which is releasibly attachedto the gripper member 336 through fasteners 396. The elongated slotsalso extend in a wall 398 of the gripper member that is opposite of thecover 394.

As can be appreciated in the exemplary embodiment engagement of the camfollowers 390 with the adjacent cams on each side of the gripper membercause the gripper portion 384 to move so as to engage and release sheetsin the slots in the desired rotational positions. This is done in themanner previously discussed in connection with gripper member 274.Further in exemplary embodiments if the gripper portion should becomeworn or saturated with dirt or other contaminants, it may be removed andthe interior area of the gripper member cleaned. Likewise the gripperportion 384 may be cleaned or replaced. This is done by removing thefasteners holding the cover 394 and removing the gripper portion fromengagement with the gripper member and then reassembling the gripperportion cover. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

The exemplary indicating member 340 is similar to indicating member 378.As shown in FIGS. 36 and 37 the indicating member 340 is a rotatingmember that rotates in operatively fixed engagement with the shaft 324.The indicating member includes a pair of finger portions 400 and 402.The finger portions bound slots 404 and 406 which are configured foraccepting sheets therein. As can be appreciated slots 404 and 406 arearranged such that they are angularly aligned with the slots formed onthe gripper members 336 and 338 as well as slots on the sensing member344 so as to facilitate sheets extending therein as they are held, movedand released into the stack. Of course it should be understood thatthese configurations are exemplary.

FIGS. 30 through 34 show features of the exemplary embodiment of thesensing member 334. It should be understood that sensing member 334 issimilar to sensing member 276 that operates in an opposite hand manner.

As shown in FIG. 30 sensing member 334 is a rotating member that rotatesin operatively fixed engagement with shaft 334. As shown the sensingmember rotates in a clockwise direction with the shaft. Sensing member334 includes a first curved finger portion 408 and a second curvedfinger portion 410. Finger portion 408 is rotatably mounted to a bodymember 412 (see FIG. 34) about a pivot 414. Finger portion 410 ismounted to the body portion and rotates about a pivot 416. Fingerportion 408 is biased by a spring 418. Spring 418 biases finger portion408 about the pivot 414 such that the finger portion is biased towardthe radially outward position. Similarly finger portion 410 is biased bya spring 420 toward the radially outward position.

Finger portion 408 is in operative connection with a cam follower 422.Cam follower 422 is operative to engage adjacent cams in the stackerwheel assembly 332. Finger portion 410 is also in operative connectionwith a similar cam follower 424.

Finger portion 408 includes a magnet 426 mounted in supportingconnection therewith. Magnet 426 has its poles oriented as shown. Magnet426 comprises a first target element portion which can be sensed throughoperation of a Hall effect sensor schematically indicated 428. In theexemplary embodiment the Hall effect sensor is mounted outside of thecontainer 100 and enables sensing the magnetic properties of the magnetin a contactless manner. As can be appreciated from FIGS. 30 and 31 themagnet is movably positioned responsive to radially inward displacementof an outward projecting portion 430 of the finger portion 408. Fingerportion 410 includes a projecting portion 431 and a magnet 432. Magnet432 is similar to magnet 426 and is movable with finger portion 410.

As represented in FIG. 30 the outer projecting portion 430 of fingerportion 408 engages the upper sheet 434 in a stack 436 of sheets thatare accumulated in container 100. Engagement of the first sheet and theengaging portion is operative to move and position magnet 426. Thus inthe exemplary embodiment the position of the first sheet in the stack isdetectable through sensing of the magnetic field that can be sensedresponsive to the position of the magnet on each finger portion usingthe Hall effect sensor.

As best seen in FIGS. 33 and 34 the finger portions 408 and 410 eachdefine slots 438, 440. Slots 438 and 440 are configured to be angularlyaligned with the slots and the other rotating members in the stackingassembly 332. Further the cam followers 424 and 422 are constrained tomove in slots 442. Slots 442 extend in body 412 as well as in a cover446 that is releasibly attachable through fasteners 448.

In operation of the exemplary sensing member 344 the member rotatesclockwise as shown. As the projecting portions 430, 431 rotate intoengagement with the top sheet bounding the stack, the magnets 426, 432are positioned so as to enable the Hall effect sensor to sense theposition of the magnet and thus the associated projecting portion.Further the action of the springs in the exemplary embodiment biasingthe finger members outward, generally maintain a desired pressure on thetop of the stack so as to facilitate holding the sheets in the stack. Inthe exemplary embodiment the projecting portion generally appliesapproximately one quarter to one half pound of force to the top sheet inthe stack for this purpose. Of course this approach is exemplary, and inother embodiments other approaches may be used.

During operation of the sensing member engagement of the cam followerswith the adjacent cams enable the projecting portion adjacent to thestack to extend the full outward extent of its radial travel asnecessary for purposes of moving to engage the top sheet in the stack.This is represented in FIG. 30 in which a finger portion 450 of anadjacent gripper member is also shown for purposes of demonstrating theextent of travel of the finger portions of the sensing member. However,engagement of the cams operate to limit the outward travel of the fingerportions when they are angularly disposed away from the stack. This isrepresented by the position of finger portion 410 in FIGS. 30 and 31.Holding the finger portion that is rotated away from the stack radiallyinwardly through engagement with the cams facilitates engagement withthe sheets and avoids problems that might occur with potentiallycatching outwardly extending finger portions on the associated flipshaft assembly. Of course this approach is exemplary, and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

FIG. 32 shows an exemplary graph of signals that are generated throughan adjacent Hall effect sensor through the positioning of the magnets onthe movable finger portions of the exemplary sensor member. In FIG. 32line A corresponds to the signal that is received from the Hall effectsensor when the magnet 426 is positioned as shown in FIG. 30. Line Brepresents signals that correspond to the position of the magnets in theposition shown in FIG. 31 which corresponds to the generally desirableposition of the engaging portion relative to the stack.

In operation of one exemplary embodiment the Hall effect sensor 428 isin operative communication through appropriate interfaces with the atleast one terminal controller of the automated banking machine. Theterminal controller is operative as control circuitry to cause movementof the drive within the associated container so as to position the plate188 previously described, so as to maintain the projecting portions ofthe sensing member in the desired position. This is accomplished in theexemplary embodiment by the automated banking machine impartingrotational movement through a gear 218 on the machine to gear 216 whichis part of the drive within the container. Rotation of gear 216 isoperative to rotate screw 198 of the drive so as to position plate 188within the container.

In one exemplary embodiment as sheets are added to the stack within thecontainer the Hall effect sensor 428 is operative to sense the magneticsignals generated responsive to the position of the target elementportion which includes the magnets 426 and 432. The at least oneprocessor is operative to cause the plate supporting the stack to bemoved so as to maintain the desired Hall effect signal which isindicative of the projecting portion on the sensing member being in thedesired position upon each rotation. Thus in the exemplary embodimentthe appropriate position and pressure is maintained for the stack by thesensing member as sheets are added to the stack. Further as can beappreciated when the container is first installed in an empty conditionin the machine, the at least one processor may operate to cause theplate to move so that the plate is positioned and engages the passingprojecting portions so that the plate is ready to support incomingsheets.

In some other alternative embodiments at least one processor in theautomated banking machine may be operative to selectively control themovement of the plate 188 based on the characteristics of those sheetsthat are being received into the stack. In an exemplary embodiment atleast one data store in operative connection with at least one processormay have stored therein at least one value. This at least one value isused by the processor as sheets are being added to the stack to move thesupport plate a corresponding distance. Thus for example in someembodiments the addition of each sheet being engaged with the stackerwheel assembly and added to the stack, causes the support plate to bemoved away from the stacker wheel assembly a distance that correspondsto the stored value. In such embodiments the at least one stored valuecorresponds to a thickness of each added sheet. Thus in such embodimentsthe movement of the support plate is designed to move the stack so thatas sheets are being added, the desired amount of compressive force ismaintained between the movable projecting portions of the sensing memberand the top of the stack. This can help to assure that the integrity ofthe stack is maintained by avoiding force outside of a desired rangewhich can result in loss of stack integrity. In exemplary embodiments itis desired to maintain approximately one quarter to one half pound offorce between the top sheet applied by the rotating assembly thatcomprises the stacker wheel assembly. This force is applied by themovable projecting portion of the sensing member engaging the top sheetof the stack. Of course this approach is exemplary and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used. Further it should beunderstood that while in this exemplary embodiment the support plate ismoved in response to the stored value to accommodate the thickness ofeach sheet as it is being added to the stack, in other embodimentsmovement of the support plate may be made only after multiple sheetshave been added to the stack.

In operation of the automated banking machine various types of sheetsmay be accepted within the stack. The sheets being added may vary intheir properties. Sheets may include for example new paper or plasticsheets which are relatively rigid and incompressible. Other sheets mayinclude worn sheets which have been crinkled and/or which are relativelymore compressible. In some embodiments the stack may be receivingdifferent types of sheets which have different properties in terms ofcompressibility, which compressibility may be alternatively thought ofas sheet fluffiness.

In some exemplary embodiments it is desirable to operate the processorto change the at least one stored value which causes movement of thesupport plate away from the rotating assembly, based on the degree ofcompressibility of the sheets that are being sensed as added to thestack in the environment in which the device is operated. This isaccomplished in some embodiments by utilizing the existing stored valueto move the support plate downward with each sheet that is added to thestack. Then after the current activity or a given transaction in whichsheets have been added to the stack, the at least one processor isoperative in accordance with its programming to cause the drive to movethe plate downward. The plate is moved downward until the projectingportion which serves as a movable sensing member has moved radiallyoutward in engagement with the top sheet of the stack to an extent thata level of movement of the projecting portion is sensed by the sensorthat detects the magnetic element in connection with the movableprojecting portion.

After the at least one processor has sensed that the movable projectingportion is disposed radially outward to a reference level, the at leastone processor is then operative to cause the drive to move the platetoward the stacker wheel assembly. The processor operates to cause thedrive to move the plate toward the stacker wheel assembly until theprojecting portion in engagement with the top sheet is moved radiallyinward to an extent in which the magnetic target element portionindicates that the compressive force applied between the projectingportion and the top sheet is at a desired level. This is sensed in theexemplary embodiment by the sensor sensing the position of the magneticelement. In response to sensing the projecting portion having moved to aposition in which a desired compressive force is acting between thesensing member of the stacker wheel assembly and the stack, theprocessor is operative to cause the drive to stop moving the platetoward the rotating assembly.

In the exemplary operation the at least one processor operates tocalculate data corresponding to the distances that the plate movesdownward to cause the reference displacement of the projecting portionon the sensing member and then the data associated with moving the platetoward the stacker wheel assembly. As a function of the datacorresponding to the distances the plate moves away and then toward thestacker wheel assembly to achieve the desired force, the at least oneprocessor operates to calculate data corresponding to a determination ofhow closely the current at least one stored value is causing the plateto move the appropriate amount with each sheet to maintain the desiredcompressive force on the top of the stack. The at least one processorthen operates in the exemplary embodiment to change the at least onestored value responsive to the determination to correspond to the dataassociated with moving the support plate.

For example in some exemplary embodiments if the distance that the platemoves downward is greater than the distance that the support plate thenmoves upward, this may be an indication that the plate is not currentlymoving downward far enough with each sheet that is being added. Thiswill cause the processor to operate in accordance with its programmingto change the at least one stored value stored in the data store so asto cause the support plate to move away from the rotating assemblysomewhat more as each sheet is sensed as being added to the stack.

Likewise in an exemplary embodiment if the distance that the plate ismoved downward is less than the amount the support plate is moved upwardso as to achieve the desired compressive force, this may be anindication that the support plate is moving too far downward with eachadded sheet. The at least one processor may operate in accordance withits programming to adjust the at least one stored value so that thesupport plate moves downward somewhat less with each sheet being addedto the stack.

Thus in this exemplary mode of operation the at least one processor isoperative to change the at least one stored value to more closelycorrespond to the thickness and properties of sheets that are currentlybeing received in the machine. In other embodiments the at least oneprocessor may move the stack in only one direction and may base thechange in stored value on only the one distance. This might be done incircumstances where the plate moves to a location which corresponds to areference position. Of course these approaches are exemplary and inother embodiments other approaches may be used.

Further it should be understood that in some modes of operation sheetsof various sizes may be received in the stack. This may be for examplesituations where currency bills of various sizes are used within a givencountry or territory. In situations where smaller bills have beenstacked on top of larger bills (or vice versa) it is possible that thestacked sheets may fall over. This may periodically occur due to theunstable nature of a single stack which includes areas with smaller andlarger sheets.

In some exemplary embodiments when this occurs the at least oneprocessor may operate responsive to the at least one sensor no longersensing that the projecting portions on the sensing member on therotating assembly are engaged with the stack. In such circumstances theat least one processor may operate in accordance with its programming tocause the drive to move the plate toward the stacker wheel assemblyuntil contact of a suitable nature is again established with sheetsincluded within the container. In an exemplary embodiment the at leastone processor will then operate to cause another stack of sheets to bebuilt within the container. The further stack will generally begin tobuild on at least a portion of the earlier stack which is nottransversely disposed in the container due to having fallen over. The atleast one processor may then operate in the manner described to continueto build the sheet stack within the container. Further in some exemplaryembodiments the at least one processor may operate in accordance withits programming to determine a situation where the plate has beenrequired to operate to move toward the sheet stacker assembly a muchgreater distance than would be appropriate in situations where theintegrity of the sheet stack had been maintained. The at least oneprocessor may operate in accordance with its programming to causecertain steps to be taken in such circumstances. These steps may includefor example, operating the machine to cause a notification to be givento a remote entity to indicate that stack integrity within a particularcontainer is no longer being maintained. As a result a servicer may benotified to travel to the machine and replace the container. This mightbe done in circumstances where further processing of sheets isfacilitated if stack integrity is maintained. Alternatively if it isdesirable to include as many sheets as possible within a given sheetholding container before it is changed, the at least one processor mayoperate in accordance with its programming to store data which indicatesthat additional sheets may be stored in the cassette because of theparticular circumstances and to continue to operate to add sheets to acontainer beyond a number that might otherwise be considered a maximumfor the container. In still other embodiments the automated bankingmachine may include mechanisms or members which operate to move orvibrate the containers so that additional sheets may be stored therein.Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments otherapproaches may be used.

In addition in the exemplary embodiment the bracket 208 which is inoperative connection with the plate 188 includes a location indicatingelement 452 thereon. This is represented in FIG. 20. The locationindicating element in the exemplary embodiment comprises a magnet whichis detectable through a Hall effect sensor 454. The exemplary Halleffect sensor is in operative supported connection with the back wall120 of the tray 112.

In the exemplary embodiment the Hall effect sensor 454 is positioned soas to indicate that the stack size has grown to the point where it isapproaching a maximum number of sheets the container will hold. This isindicative that the container will soon no longer be able to acceptadditional sheets therein. The terminal controller of the exemplaryembodiment is operative to take actions in accordance with itsprogrammed instructions responsive to sensing this condition. This mayinclude for example operating in a manner described in the incorporateddisclosures to give notice to an appropriate entity of the need toreplace or empty the sheet holding containers within the machine.Further in other embodiments additional sensing devices may bepositioned so that the position of the plate 188 may be detected atnumerous locations within the container. This enables an exemplaryterminal controller to detect the numbers of sheets in each of thecontainers and use this information to calculate time periods at whichreplacement of the containers would be required or other actions thatneed to be taken. Of course this approach is exemplary, and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

Although the previously described exemplary embodiment uses magneticsensing principles to contactlessly sense properties and positions ofcomponents within the removable containers, other embodiments may useother principles. These include other principles for sensing suchcomponents and conditions in a contactless manner. An alternativeexemplary embodiment to accomplish such sensing is shown schematicallyin FIGS. 40 through 44. In this exemplary embodiment radiation sensingprinciples may be utilized for purposes of sensing such components andconditions. These may include for example sensing of the rotationalposition of a stacker wheel assembly. It may also include for examplesensing positions of a support plate. Such principles may also beapplied to sensing the finger portions on a sensing member so as tomaintain a proper stack conditions.

In an exemplary embodiment a radiation sensor 456 may be utilized. Sucha sensor includes a radiation emitter 458 and a receiver 460 (see FIG.44). The exemplary sensor uses infrared radiation but in otherembodiments other approaches may be used. In exemplary embodiments aradiation blinder structure or similar structure for preventing leakageof radiation directly from the emitter to the receiver may be used. Theexemplary blinder structure 462 is shown in detail in FIG. 44. Of courseit should be understood that this blinder structure is exemplary and inother embodiments other approaches may be used.

The exemplary embodiment includes a radiation conducting element 464.The radiation conducting element 464 includes a prism which is operativeto direct radiation from the emitter and the receiver in the directionof the arrows as shown. In an exemplary embodiment a movable memberschematically indicated 466 within the container may have one or moretarget element portions 468 and 470. The target element portions in anexemplary embodiment may comprise a reflective material which hasreflective elements therein that are uniformly aligned so as to providereflection therefrom. In the exemplary embodiment the target elementportions are comprised of glass bead material which includes reflectiveelements that are operative to reflect incident radiation at an angle ofreflection which differs from the angle of incidence. In this way thetarget element portions may provide reflective properties that are morereadily detectable through a radiation sensor. In some exemplaryembodiments the target element portions may comprise a reflective tapeof the type used in connection with the apparatus described in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/983,410 the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Of course thisapproach is exemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may beused.

In an exemplary method of operation target element portions may bepositioned on the periphery of one or more rotating members in astacking element assembly. Using the exemplary optical sensor andradiation conducting element, the sensor 456 is operative to sense eachtime a target element portion passes in proximity to the end of theradiation conducting element. In this manner the sensor which is inoperative connection with the terminal controller enables the terminalcontroller to operate to control rotation of the stacker wheel assembly.

Alternatively or in addition radiation target element portions may beincluded in operative connection with a bracket or other member that isin operative connection with a support plate similar to support plate188. Thus for example sensors and radiation conducting elements may beused to sense the position of the support plate such that the terminalcontroller may determine when a container has reached a particulardegree of fullness (or emptiness). This may be done for purposes ofdetermining that a cassette that is receiving the sheets does not becomefilled and/or a cassette for dispensing sheets therefrom does not becomeempty. Of course this approach is exemplary.

In other exemplary embodiments radiation reflective members may be usedfor purposes of determining and controlling stack position within acontainer. For example movable finger portions like those previouslydescribed may include thereon or in operative connection therewithradiation reflective portions rather than magnetic elements of the typedescribed in the previous embodiment. Such radiation reflective portionsmay be moved responsive to engagement of the finger portions with thestack. Such movement can be used to provide radiation signals which aresensed through operation of the sensor and which can be used by theterminal processor to maintain the top sheet in the stack and thestacker assembly in the desired relative positions.

Of course it should be understood that the use of magnetic and radiationsensing elements of these described embodiments is exemplary ofapproaches that may be used for purposes of sensing and controllingitems within a container. While in the exemplary embodiment contactlessapproaches have been described, in other embodiments other approachesincluding approaches which use electrical and/or physical contactbetween the container and the remainder of the automated banking machinemay be used. It should be understood that these approaches are merelyexemplary of applications of the various principles described.

In operation of an exemplary embodiment of the automated bankingmachine, the machine may operate as an automated teller machine (ATM).In the exemplary embodiment a user operating the machine inputs a databearing record such as a card to the slot that is operatively connectedwith card reader 22 of the machine. The card reader operates to readdata from the data bearing record that corresponds to a user and/or theuser's financial account. In the exemplary embodiment the user alsoinputs a personal identification number (PIN) through the keypad 24. Inthe exemplary embodiment the terminal controller operates to provideoutputs through the display 28 and/or through the speakers 32 orheadphone jack 34 so as to prompt the user to provide these inputs. Ofcourse it should be understood that in other embodiments users may beprompted to input other types of data bearing records or useridentifying inputs for purposes of identifying the user or theiraccount.

After receiving the inputs from the user the at least one terminalcontroller operates the automated banking machine in accordance with itsprogramming to determine if the data read from the data bearing recordand/or other inputs correspond to an authorized user and/or a financialaccount which is authorized to conduct transactions through operation ofthe machine. This is accomplished in exemplary embodiments by theterminal controller causing communication between the automated bankingmachine and one or more remote computers to determine that the inputdata corresponds to data for an individual who is authorized to conducta transaction.

In the exemplary embodiment the user may also provide inputs through oneor more input devices indicating that they wish to withdraw cash fromthe machine. In such circumstances the terminal controller operates inaccordance with its associated programmed instructions to cause themachine to communicate with at least one remote computer to determine ifthe user is authorized to conduct the requested transaction. In responseto receiving an indication that the data input by the user correspondsto an individual authorized to conduct such a cash withdrawaltransaction, the exemplary terminal controller operates to cause thecash dispenser 38 to dispense the requested cash to the user. Theterminal controller operates to cause communications between theautomated banking machine and one or more remote computers so as toassess the value associated with the dispensed cash to an account of auser. This may include for example causing a debit to be assessed to anaccount of the user or by a bank or other financial institution.

Likewise in some exemplary embodiments if the user wishes to depositcash in the machine the terminal controller causes operation of thecurrency accepting device 42. The currency accepting device operates toopen a gate to provide access through the fascia opening 46 so that theuser can insert a stack comprising one or more currency bills. Theterminal controller then operates the stack handling mechanism 78 andthe picker mechanism 80 so as to unstack the bills one by one anddeliver them into the document alignment mechanism 82. Each document isaligned in a desired orientation by engagement with the documentalignment mechanism and then moved through the sensing module 84. Thesensing module 84 operates to sense various characteristics of eachbill, which sensed characteristics are usable to determine properties ofthe bill such as denomination as well as the genuineness thereof.

In the exemplary embodiment the bills that have been evaluated by thesensing module 84 are directed for storage onto the storage device 88.The terminal controller then operates to advise the user through outputsthrough the display or other output devices, concerning the machine'sdetermination concerning the number and type of bills that the user hasinput. In exemplary embodiments the user may be given the option tocause the bills to be deposited for storage in the machine or to haveone or more (or all) of the bills returned to the user. Alternatively insome embodiments the machine may operate to advise the user that certainbills are suspect and may be confiscated from the user. Alternatively orin addition other embodiments may operate in accordance with theirprogramming to advise the user that certain sheets do not correspond tobills. Of course these approaches are exemplary and depend on theprogramming of the particular automated banking machine.

In the exemplary embodiment if the user indicates that they wish to havethe bills they have input deposited, the bills are delivered one at atime from the storage device and directed by the gates 86 through theintermodule transport 94 into the sheet directing assembly 96. Theterminal controller then causes the sheet directing assembly to operatebased on the characteristics of each respective sheet as determined bythe sensing module 84. For example the terminal controller may causesheets having particular denominations or characteristics to be storedin container 98, while sheets having other characteristics are stored instorage location 102, and still other types of sheets are stored incontainer 100. For example in some embodiments the bills may be sortedby denomination. In still other embodiments the bills may be sorted bythe country of origin of the bills, or other properties. Of course thisis merely exemplary.

In the exemplary embodiment sheets that are not identifiable as currencybills may be selectively routed to the stack handling mechanism 78 whileother bills are directed to the intermodule transport. Further inexemplary embodiments if bills are determined to be counterfeit or ofsuspected counterfeit they may be directed for storage into the documentsegregation compartment 92. Of course it should be understood that theseapproaches are exemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches maybe used.

In such a deposit transaction the terminal controller may operate tocause the banking machine to communicate with one or more remotecomputers so as to cause the machine user and/or their financial accountto be credited for a value associated with the valid bills deposited.The terminal controller may operate in some embodiments to indicate thedenomination and types of bills that have been deposited. Further insome embodiments the terminal controller may operate to communicateinformation about the suspect or counterfeit nature of bills to remotecomputers so that authorities can be notified. Of course other steps mayalso be taken in accordance with the programming of the particularterminal controller and associated remote computers.

In operation of an exemplary transaction in which a user is to becredited for the value of bills deposited, the terminal controlleroperates in accordance with its programming to cause the receipt printer36 of the automated banking machine to provide the user with a receipt.The receipt may include various information about the bills deposited bythe user as well as the location, time and date of the transaction. Thismay be done to provide the user with a record of the transaction thathas been conducted. Alternatively or in addition the terminal controllerof the exemplary embodiment may cause communication of the machine withother computers so as to provide the user with receipt information viaan e-mail message to an e-mail account and/or through a text message toa cell phone or other computer. Of course this approach is exemplary,and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In operation of the exemplary automated banking machine sheets areaccumulated in stacks in the containers 98 and 100. Sheets may also beaccumulated in the middle storage compartment 102. After a plurality oftransactions have been conducted one or more of the containers may besensed as approaching the maximum level of sheets that can be heldtherein. This may be done through a contactless sensor sensing theposition of the stack support plate in the manner previously described,or in another suitable manner. In response to sensing a containerreaching a near full condition, the terminal controller may operate inaccordance with its programming to notify an appropriate entity of aneed to change or remove bills from the container or containers. Thismay be done in the manner of the incorporated disclosures.

The servicer who is responsible for changing the cassettes or removingbills therefrom may do so by accessing the secure chest of the automatedbanking machine by opening the safe lock 52 and moving the safe door 50to an open position. In this position the tray 112 which supports thecontainers may be moved outward in supporting connection with theslides. Each container may be removed by actuating the respectiverelease lever 242 so as to disengage the latch member from therespective container. The servicer is then enabled to move the top ofeach container outward from the back wall of the tray and lift thecontainer upward so as to disengage the tray.

With the container 100 disengaged from the tray the door 116 to themiddle compartment may be unlatched and opened so as to remove billswhich have been accumulated therein. In some exemplary embodiments themiddle compartment may be used only under limited circumstances. Thismay be for example for storing bills when one of the containers hasreached the filled condition and can no longer accept bills.Alternatively special types of bills that meet certain criteria or otherparameters may be stored in the middle storage area. Notes stored in themiddle storage area may be removed by the servicer, and thereafter thedoor 116 placed in a closed and latched position.

Generally persons responsible for removing containers which have notesstored therein will replace the removed containers with emptycontainers. The empty containers may be installed in engagement with thetray and have the upper portions thereof moved inward so as to beengaged in positive relation with the respective latching member. Oncethe containers have been replaced the tray 112 may be retracted towithin the safe. The safe door may then be closed and secured and themachine returned to service.

The exemplary removed containers may be transported to a remote locationin a locked condition. This may be done for purposes of moving thecontainers securely to a place where the containers are opened andcurrency bills therein may be removed and counted. Alternatively fieldpersonnel may be provided with keys or other items or data that can beused for unlocking the containers so as to access the bills therein.

In the exemplary embodiment authorized persons open the doors 178 on thecontainers by opening the associated locks 180. This provides access tothe sheet holding compartment within the container. Removal of thesheets therefrom is preferably accomplished by engaging the tab 202 soas to move the lever which releases the plate 188 from operativeengagement with the drive. This enables the plate to be moved in thecassette so that the stack of sheets can be more readily manuallygrasped. The bills are then removed and counted or otherwise processedfor purposes of validating the transactions conducted through themachine.

In the exemplary embodiment once the bills have been removed from thecontainer, the container door may be closed and locked and thecontainers routed for replacement in an automated banking machine. Inthe exemplary embodiment it is not required to position the plate 188adjacent to the stacker wheel assembly after the sheets have beenremoved. This is because the terminal controller in the machine operatesin accordance with its programming to automatically position the platefor purposes of receiving sheets once the container has been installedin the machine. Of course these approaches are exemplary, and in otherembodiments other approaches may be used.

Thus the exemplary embodiments achieve at least some of the above statedobjectives, eliminate difficulties encountered in the use of priordevices, systems and methods, solve problems and attain the desirableresults described herein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity,clarity and understanding, however no unnecessary limitations are to beimplied therefrom because such terms are used for descriptive purposesand are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, the descriptions andillustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention is notlimited to the exact details shown and described.

In the following claims any feature described as a means for performinga function shall be construed as encompassing any means known to thoseskilled in the art as being capable of performing the recited function,and shall not be deemed limited to the structures shown in the foregoingdescription or mere equivalents thereof. The provision of an abstractherewith likewise shall not be construed as limiting the claims to thefeatures or functions described in the abstract.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of theinvention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and theadvantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures,devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems,equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are setforth in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: a sheet stacking device that is operative to produce a stack of sheets, wherein the sheet stacking device includes: a rotating assembly, wherein the rotating assembly is operative to engage a sheet being moved toward the stack, move the sheet in engagement therewith, and release the engaged sheet in the stack; a support plate that is movably mounted and operative to support the stack, wherein the stack of sheets includes a top sheet adjacent to and in operatively engaged relation with the rotating assembly; a drive that is in operative connection with the support plate; a sensor that is operative to sense a compressive force acting between the top sheet and the rotating assembly; a processor that is in operative connection with the drive and the sensor; wherein the processor is operative to cause operation of the drive responsive to the sensor; and wherein the processor is operative to cause the drive to move the support plate responsive to compressive force sensed by the sensor acting between the rotating assembly and the top sheet. 